Climber

Tommy Caldwell is the defining big wall climber of his generation. A master climber in sport, traditional, big wall first ascents, and speed records, he is unparalleled in his versatility. His career has been shaped by navigating extreme challenges, including a harrowing hostage situation in Kyrgyzstan and an accident that resulted in the loss of an index finger. Through it all, Tommy has proven that resilience can conquer the impossible—most notably with the first-ever free climb of The Dawn Wall.

In 2015, Tommy and his climbing partner, Kevin Jorgeson, completed a 19-day ascent of The Dawn Wall, earning worldwide acclaim, over 34 billion media impressions, and recognition from President Barack Obama. The journey was chronicled in the documentary The Dawn Wall and in Tommy’s 2017 memoir The Push: A Climber’s Journey of Endurance, Risk, and Going Beyond Limits. 

Beyond climbing, advocacy is a central part of Tommy’s work. He has spoken to Congress and testified for the Senate to support key pieces of climate legislation. In everything he does, Tommy fights for the world—and the people—he believes in.

Tommy’s speaking sessions are a masterclass in perseverance. Drawing from his life experiences, he demonstrates how facing adversity head-on can unlock the capacity for meaningful change. Tommy’s belief in the power of passion to fuel extraordinary achievements is contagious, inspiring audiences to rise to their own challenges, no matter how daunting.

Whether addressing a packed TED Talk auditorium or leading an intimate Google engagement, Tommy delivers a powerful message of resilience, risk, and reward. He encourages each listener to find their own “Dawn Wall”—that seemingly impossible challenge worth the climb. Tommy inspires audiences to put in the work and savor the view from the top.